A/HRC/25/14 National Electoral Commission, made up of 17 members from the majority, 17 members of the opposition and 6 members from civil society. The delegation stressed that the democratic process was progressing, that there was real political debate, and that all political opinions, both from the majority and from the opposition, were represented. 54. In addition, the delegation reported that there was ongoing dialogue between the Government and trade unions in order to avoid crises and to organize meetings to find solutions to concerns as they arose. 55. Returning to questions on the press, the delegation noted that in any new democracy, the press was not entirely sure of its role in the democratic process and that even the Government was still finding its way in that area. As a result, conflicts could arise, but the courts were in place to set things on the right track if necessary, or to deal with complaints — often lodged by individuals — and the judicial system had demonstrated its independence in that area. The delegation stressed that the Government understood that a free press served the interests of democracy and the people. However, journalists had to be trained and the Government was working for that, through the Higher Council for Communication, which was made up of representatives of the press, the Government and the National Assembly. There was also a professional association that reprimanded members if the press made mistakes. 56. With regard to violence against women, the delegation drew attention to the establishment of a national coordinating body for prevention and protection pursuant to an order issued in 2010. Such violence was now punishable but there was also a need to raise public awareness, as nothing would be achieved if punishment was not accompanied by education. Accordingly, the Government had launched a national awareness-raising campaign based on publications such as “United against violence against women” and the Code of Conduct for Soldiers. 57. Burundi welcomed achievements in health, especially involving women, children and people living with HIV/AIDS. It noted measures to combat discrimination against women and gender-based violence, including female genital mutilation (FGM). Burundi made a recommendation. 58. Canada asked Chad to detail its measures to combat the recruitment and use of children by armed groups and to facilitate their reintegration. It recognized the importance of the country’s commitment to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali. Canada made recommendations. 59. Cape Verde noted the accession to international human rights instruments, including the Optional Protocols to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the positive impact of human rights legislation and national plans to combat child recruitment and violence against women and ensure gender equality. It made recommendations. 60. The Central African Republic commended Chad for its cooperation with UNICEF in combating the recruitment of child soldiers, its national strategy incorporating women’s concerns over gender-based violence and the building or refurbishment of hospitals offering free emergency care to all, without discrimination, and health-care facilities. It made a recommendation. 61. China acknowledged the Government’s plans to enhance economic, social and agricultural and environmental development, and to promote equality and reduce poverty. It recognized the signing of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. China made recommendations. 62. Comoros commended Chad for strengthening political dialogue as a means of extending civil peace and constitutional order, promoting the right to education and access GE.14-10021 9